Blunders is an excellent board game to teach children manners at home or in the classroom.

In the game, members of the Blunder family (that’s your child and other participating players), learn their manners as they make their way around the board and try to be the first to win an invitation to a pool party extravaganza at the Mannerlys. Each player is able to move ahead when s/he answers or acts out a manners scenerio from a card correctly. And yes, it is fun (kid, parent and grandparent approved)!

This interactive manners game takes players through school etiquette, telephone manners, respect and kindness, confident introductions, host and guest skills, table manners and honesty and responsibility.

Blunders is an award winning game for two or more players. It is recommended for ages 5 and up. It is available at www.mastermindtoys.com.

Find out more at: www.blundersmania.com.

I have an excellent book to recommend to prepare little ones for becoming a big brother or big sister …  I’m a Big Sister or I’m a Big Brother by Joanna Cole.

These two books are special because of their easy language, lovely illustrations and important reminder that having a new baby means becoming a big sibling, which is a very important job. This is not the book to explain how babies are born, but rather prepares children for their wonderful role of a big sister or brother. The two versions are identical except that each is gender specific to becoming a big brother or sister.

I’m a Big Borther and I’m a Big Sister by Joanna Cole are widely available at stores and in your local library.

Mama Cardsâ„¢ by Mabel’s Labels offer a great way to pass on your contact information to other parents at daycares, schools, at drop-off birthday parties etc.

Being a mama is one of the biggest jobs of all … you are recreational and social coordinator, teacher, counsellor, referee, friend, driver and so on and so on. Don’t you need a card to hand out (as needed) for all of your many roles?

Advantages of Mama Cardsâ„¢:

- The cards are attractive, whimsical and fun and you can ensure they reflect ‘your style’ (or perhaps wannabe style if you had the time)
- You can avoid the inevitable search to find a pen (or crayon) when exchanging information
- Your Mama Cardâ„¢ won’t be mistaken for a torn piece of paper destined for recycling

What a great gift to give to a new mama (access to other parents they meet) or for yourself. Afterall, it’s really for your child(ren), right?

Mama Cardsâ„¢ are currently available in five original designs and priced at $29 CDN for 100 cards. Learn more at www.mabel.ca/mabel.php?n=mama%20cards.

 

 

As the cool winter wind starts to blow, inevitable struggles with children over wearing winter accessories can actually heat up. Perhaps ’these’ discussions inspired AaRDVARK to simplify the experience for your family with their line of fun kids’ scarves.

How?

Twelve (12) whimsical designs • 100% Polyester Fleece  • Machine wash and dry • $15 Price tag

From cupcakes to diggers, skull & crossbones and more, your child will find the scarf that defines their sense of cool, to help you keep them warm.

Browse with your child for their favourite scarf at www.aardvarkcollection.com/scarves.php.

Note: Children should always be supervised when wearing scarves.